Kreator - 1985-1992 Past Life Trauma (2000)

Of all the underground European thrash outfits who helped pioneer death metal during the '80s bands like Hellhammer, Sodom, Destruction, and Bathory Kreator arguably holds up the best over time (with the possible exception of Celtic Frost). Where many of their peers made an impression solely through manic intensity, Kreator became increasingly able to bolster their harsh fury with progressive compositions and tight, technically accomplished musicianship. The band's most influential period, 1985-1992, is captured on Past Life Trauma, a fan-selected, 18-track best-of that features two rarities and two previously unreleased tracks. Featuring most of Kreator's best material from the '80s and early '90s, it's the perfect introduction to the influential thrashers' output, and it's been digitally remastered to boot.